Chipped a tooth? Lost one completely? Dental crowns and bridges are not just fancy dental terms—they’re powerful solutions that can restore your bite, boost your confidence, and protect your oral health long-term.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know—from how they work, when you need them, to types, procedures, costs, and maintenance tips. Let’s dive in!
Dental Crowns and Bridges Guide
If you’re dealing with damaged or missing teeth, this Dental Crowns and Bridges Guide is your go-to resource for understanding the most effective restorative dental treatments available today. Whether you need to restore the strength of a single tooth with a crown or fill a gap with a bridge, these procedures offer both functional and cosmetic benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn about the different types of crowns and bridges, the step-by-step procedures, materials used, average costs in the UAE, and expert tips for long-lasting results. Let this Dental Crowns and Bridges Guide help you make confident decisions for your oral health and smile transformation.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap shaped like a tooth that’s placed over a damaged, decayed, or weak tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are also used after root canal treatments, dental implants, or for cosmetic enhancements.
When Do You Need a Crown?
- Large cavity that can’t be filled
- Broken or cracked tooth
- Severely worn down teeth
- After root canal treatment
- Covering a dental implant
- Cosmetic smile correction
Types of Dental Crowns
- Porcelain crowns – Aesthetic and natural-looking, ideal for front teeth
- Zirconia crowns – Strong, biocompatible, and long-lasting
- Gold crowns – Durable, best for molars, though less aesthetic
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) – Combines strength and natural look
- E-max crowns – High-strength, all-ceramic, great for front teeth
Dental Crown Procedure: Step by Step
- Examination & X-rays
- Tooth reshaping
- Impression taking
- Temporary crown placement
- Crown fabrication (usually 1-2 weeks)
- Final crown fitting and bonding
How Long Do Crowns Last?
With good oral hygiene, dental crowns can last 10–15 years, sometimes even longer.
What Are Dental Bridges?
Definition and Function
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It’s called a bridge because it literally bridges the gap created by missing teeth, using crowns on either side as anchors (abutments) with a false tooth (pontic) in the middle.
When Do You Need a Bridge?
- Missing one or more teeth in a row
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Teeth shifting into gaps
- Cosmetic concerns from tooth loss
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional bridge – Most common, uses crowns on adjacent teeth
- Cantilever bridge – Used when only one side has a healthy tooth
- Maryland bridge – Uses metal or porcelain framework, conservative approach
- Implant-supported bridge – Ideal when multiple teeth are missing
Dental Bridge Procedure
- Diagnosis and planning
- Tooth preparation of abutment teeth
- Impressions sent to the lab
- Temporary bridge placement
- Permanent bridge placement and cementation
Crowns vs Bridges: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Dental Crown | Dental Bridge |
| Purpose | Covers a damaged tooth | Replaces one or more missing teeth |
| Tooth requirement | Requires a tooth or implant base | Requires adjacent healthy teeth |
| Stability | Very stable | Stable, may stress anchor teeth over time |
| Cost | Starts from AED 1,000–2,500 | AED 2,000–6,000 depending on type & material |
| Procedure time | 1–2 visits | 2–3 visits |
Benefits of Dental Crowns and Bridges
- Restores natural chewing and speech
- Prevents teeth from shifting
- Enhances smile aesthetics
- Maintains facial structure
- Long-lasting and functional solution
Risks & Drawbacks to Know
While generally safe and effective, both treatments carry some minor risks:
- Tooth sensitivity after procedure
- Risk of decay under crown or bridge if hygiene is poor
- Crowns/bridges can loosen or fall out if cement weakens
- Gum irritation or inflammation
- In rare cases, allergic reaction to materials
Dental Crowns and Bridges Cost in UAE
Prices vary depending on clinic, material, and complexity.
| Treatment Type | Starting Price in AED |
| Porcelain Crown | 1,200 – 2,500 |
| Zirconia Crown | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| PFM Crown | 1,000 – 2,000 |
| Traditional Dental Bridge | 2,500 – 6,000 |
| Implant-supported Bridge | 6,000 – 15,000 |
Esaad and Fazaa Card holders may get special discounts at selected clinics.
Maintenance Tips: How to Make Them Last
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily using bridge flossers or interdental brushes
- Avoid hard or sticky foods
- Visit your dentist every 6 months
- Consider mouthguards if you grind your teeth
Are There Alternatives to Crowns and Bridges?
Yes, here are a few other options depending on your case:
- Dental implants – Permanent, root-based replacement
- Partial dentures – Removable option for multiple missing teeth
- Onlays/inlays – Less invasive than full crowns
- Veneers – Cosmetic option for front teeth only
Each option has pros and cons; your dentist will recommend the best based on oral health, budget, and preferences.
Dental Crowns and Bridges Before and After: What to Expect
- Before: Tooth pain, gaps, low self-confidence, difficulty chewing
- After: Natural-looking restoration, pain relief, improved bite, better aesthetics
Most patients report feeling more confident and satisfied with their smile within just one week after final placement.
FAQs about Dental Crowns and Bridges
1. What is the difference between a dental crown and a dental bridge?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a single damaged or decayed tooth to restore its strength and appearance. A dental bridge, on the other hand, is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (pontic) to adjacent teeth or implants using crowns. While crowns protect existing teeth, bridges fill the gap left by missing ones.
2. How long do dental crowns and bridges last?
Dental crowns and bridges typically last between 10 to 15 years, depending on factors like oral hygiene, the materials used, and lifestyle habits. Zirconia and gold crowns can last even longer, sometimes up to 20 years or more. Regular dental checkups and proper brushing and flossing routines can significantly extend their lifespan.
3. Is getting a crown or bridge painful?
No, the procedure is not painful. Dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area during the process. You may feel slight pressure, but not pain. After the procedure, some patients experience temporary sensitivity or mild soreness, which usually subsides within a few days.
4. What materials are used for crowns and bridges, and which is best?
Common materials include:
- Porcelain – Best for front teeth due to natural appearance
- Zirconia – Strong, durable, and biocompatible
- Gold – Highly durable, ideal for molars but less aesthetic
- PFM (Porcelain-fused-to-metal) – Strong with a natural finish
- E-Max (lithium disilicate) – Highly aesthetic and strong
The best material depends on the tooth’s location, your budget, aesthetic preferences, and bite pressure.
5. How do I care for my dental crown or bridge?
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Use interdental brushes or floss threaders for bridges
- Avoid chewing on hard items like ice or pens
- Schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups
- Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth
Proper care ensures longevity and prevents damage or decay underneath.
6. Can I get a crown without a root canal?
Yes, not all teeth that receive crowns require root canal treatment. Crowns can be placed on intact teeth that are structurally compromised due to large fillings, fractures, or for cosmetic reasons. A root canal is only needed if the pulp inside the tooth is infected or damaged.
7. What happens if my crown or bridge falls out?
If your crown or bridge becomes loose or falls out, save the restoration and visit your dentist as soon as possible. Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth. The dentist may be able to re-cement it or recommend a replacement if it’s damaged or the underlying tooth has changed.
8. Can I eat normally with a crown or bridge?
Yes, once your crown or bridge is fully cemented and adjusted, you can eat most foods comfortably. However, it’s advisable to avoid very sticky or hard foods, especially during the first few days. These could loosen the crown or damage the bridge over time.
9. Do crowns and bridges look natural?
Modern crowns and bridges are made from highly aesthetic materials like porcelain, zirconia, and E-max, which closely mimic natural teeth. Dentists color-match the restoration to your surrounding teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, especially in the front of the mouth.
10. Are crowns or bridges better than implants?
It depends on your case. Crowns and bridges are excellent for restoring damaged or missing teeth quickly and cost-effectively. Dental implants, however, are the most durable and natural-feeling option but involve surgery, longer healing time, and higher costs. Your dentist will evaluate your bone density, oral health, and budget to determine the best solution.
11. Can dental bridges cause gum problems or bad breath?
Yes, if not properly cleaned, food particles can get trapped under the pontic (false tooth), leading to plaque buildup, gum irritation, or bad breath. Regular flossing using a floss threader or water flosser is essential to maintain gum health and avoid odor-causing bacteria under the bridge.
12. Are crowns and bridges covered by insurance in the UAE?
Many dental insurance plans in the UAE cover a portion of restorative treatments like crowns and bridges, especially if they’re medically necessary. However, cosmetic-only crowns may not be covered. Check with your provider and request pre-approval or reimbursement guidelines before treatment.
13. What is a temporary crown or bridge?
A temporary crown or bridge is a short-term restoration placed while your final one is being fabricated in the lab. It protects the prepared tooth and maintains function and aesthetics. Temporary restorations are usually made of acrylic or composite resin and are less durable, so you should avoid chewing hard foods with them.
14. How much do crowns and bridges cost in Dubai?
- Porcelain crowns: AED 1,200 – AED 2,500
- Zirconia crowns: AED 1,500 – AED 3,000
- Traditional bridge (3 units): AED 2,500 – AED 6,000
- Implant-supported bridge: AED 6,000 – AED 15,000+
Some clinics offer discounts with Esaad or Fazaa cards, and prices may vary depending on the brand and location of the clinic.
15. Can I whiten my crowns or bridges?
No, crowns and bridges do not respond to teeth whitening treatments. Their color is fixed during fabrication. If you’re considering whitening, it’s best to do it before getting the crown or bridge, so your dentist can match the shade accordingly. Replacing the crown is the only way to change its color.
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